The Galleria is an upscale shopping complex located in Houston's Uptown District. With about three million square feet of space, this is the largest shopping complex in Texas and the eighth largest in the country. In addition to more than 375 stores, you will also find two hotels here as well as a private health club and an ice skating rink.

Brief History

The Galleria TX was created by Gerald Hines and opened its doors to customers for the first time in November of 1960. In its early years, the shopping center consisted of only 600,000 square feet. However, 360,000 more feet were added in 1976. Over the years, the mall steadily grew until it reached its amazing size of around three million square feet today.

Parks and Recreation

People who own properties near Houston's largest shopping mall only need to drive a short distance to find a lovely park where they can relax and unwind. A favorite park here is Hermann Park, which can be found on Hermann Park Drive. Features of Hermann Park include a large playground, a golf course, a Japanese garden and the Judson Robinson Jr. Community Center.
Another great park in the immediate area is Memorial Park located on Memorial Drive. Just minutes from Houston's Aboretum and Nature Center, Memorial Park provides such terrific amenities as swimming pools, a golf course and several athletic fields. Other popular parks in the area are Strawberry Park on Lafferty Road and Crenshaw Park on Burke Road.

Attractions and Activities

Homes near this magnificent shopping complex are only minutes away from a large variety of popular attractions as well. There are many kid-friendly attractions in the area, and some that you will want to be sure and take the kids to include the Downtown Aquarium, GattiTown, Jumping World and the Children's Museum of Houston.
Do you enjoy spending time outdoors? If you do, you will love exploring Cockrell Butterfly Center, Houston's Arboretum and Nature Center, McGovern Centennial Gardens, and Cypress Trails. If you find museums fascinating, be sure to check out Houston's Museum of Fine Arts, the Holocaust Museum and the Houston Museum of Natural Science.

Special Events

When you choose to purchase real estate near Houston's grand shopping complex, you can enjoy attending many fun special events held nearby. During the month of April, you will want to gather the kids together and check out McDonalds' Houston Children's Festival. Known as the largest children's festival in the U.S., this event features live entertainment, exciting carnival rides, a petting zoo and tasty food.
Another popular event that is held just minutes away from homes near Houston is Houston's Hot Sauce Festival. This event takes place during late September and features such festivities as children's activities, live entertainment, tons of spicy food and thrilling contests. Other events you will want to attend include the Houston International Jazz Festival and the Houston Black Heritage Festival.
If you are looking for homes for sale in Texas that offer easy access to Houston's Galleria, take a minute to contact J. Carter Breed. There are many great properties in the area, and J. Carter Breed can assist you in finding one that will meet your budget and suit you and your family's needs.